Outstanding individuals are chosen from all around the island of Ireland for the Fulbright bilateral exchange programme. On Thursday, June 13, there was a ceremony in Iveagh House when the prizes for this year were given to the honorees.

From August 2024 to August 2025, the scholars will work in their disciplines in 17 different states, at schools ranging from University of Maine to University of Puerto Rico. Irish language instruction will be provided by Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTAs) at colleges including the University of Notre Dame and the University of Montana.

“Every year, I take pride in the outstanding, passionate award recipients and am filled with renewed hope and optimism for their service to Ireland,” stated Dr. Dara FitzGerald, Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission in Ireland.

“This year is the same as last. In addition to doing research, imparting information, or studying, Fulbrighters make a difference by fully integrating themselves into a host nation and then sharing their insights and understanding when they get back home.”

“In today's more divisive world, I have little doubt that the sensitivity, compassion, and dedication of the Irish honourees will support a worldwide culture of understanding. Cheers to our latest honourees!”

Out of the eight Fulbright Fellows, Róisín Ní Bhroin is one. In 2023, Róisín obtained a first-class honours degree in both law and Irish from University College Cork (UCC). She is presently pursuing a master's degree in Irish and European law at UCC.

The native of County Wexford is involved in the thriving Irish language community. She tutors undergraduates in conversational and linguistic skills through the Department of Modern Irish.

Having a strong connection to the Kerry Gaeltacht, Róisín is excited to be teaching Irish at Notre Dame University.

Niall Ó Dochartaigh, a professor, is one of the eight Irish Fulbright scholars. Niall, a political science professor at the University of Galway, has written extensively about the war in Northern Ireland and the ensuing peace talks.

The Brian Farrell book prize was given to his most recent work, Deniable Contact: Back-channel Negotiation in Northern Ireland. Ó Dochartaigh will do research on US civil society peacemaking activities during the Troubles, headquartered out of Glucksman Ireland House at New York University.

“Fulbright is the largest and most prestigious international educational and cultural exchange programme in the world,” stated Mike Clausen, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy.

“It plays an essential role in strengthening ties between the US and Ireland. Fulbright awardees ensure that the spirit of transatlantic friendship continues to thrive. I warmly wish this year’s awardees every success.”